Tent camping options near Austin, Texas provide access to diverse ecosystems in the Texas Hill Country. From the Colorado River's limestone banks to the juniper-covered hills surrounding Lake Travis, tent campers can access sites between 400-1,200 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through September, with limited shade at many lake-adjacent sites.
What to do
Water recreation during drought: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area attracts campers seeking water activities despite fluctuating levels. "Texas in summer can be unforgiving. Lake Travis is home to boaters and Jet skiers. There are fish if you're into that," notes camper Kyle G. The lake access can be limited depending on water levels, with one visitor explaining, "considering you're on the lake, the water access is surprisingly limited. There are a few areas along the water you can walk in, but there's not a dock or boat access."
Hiking trails: Russell Park connects to the San Gabriel River Trail circling Lake Georgetown. "The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries. I'd say that 40% of the trail has some tree coverage, but 60% is exposed," shares Troy W. The trail's exposure makes summer hiking challenging, requiring extra water and sun protection.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife spotting times throughout Austin camping areas. At Grelle-Lake Travis, campers report diverse wildlife sightings: "There are a lot of trails, running up and down the hills. Great scenery and there's always wildlife around; wild hogs, porcupines, skunks, snakes, etc." Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and secure food in animal-proof containers.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: CampEZ in SxSouth Austin offers unique camping in an unconventional urban setting. A visitor described the experience: "When you go in the gate, there are old campers that have been renovated and the greenery that spreads throughout this campground is beautiful. They have donkeys and goats. There is a sauna and a hot shower and a comfortable bathroom to get ready for the day in."
Accessibility to trails: Many tent campsites serve as trailheads for longer hikes. At Russell Park, "these are drive up campsites where you may park your car next to your assigned site. The campsites have a sun awning, picnic table, campfire pit/grill." This access makes Russell Park popular for backpackers using the San Gabriel River Trail.
Weekday solitude: Turkey Bend provides quieter camping experiences during weekdays. Darby W. notes, "Awesome place to camp! You can camp on the water or in secluded sites surrounded by trees. There are even a handful of sites that are separate and a little more private." Visiting Sunday through Thursday typically means fewer neighbors and more wildlife sightings.
What you should know
Water levels affect experience: Austin-area reservoirs experience significant level fluctuations depending on rainfall and drought conditions. At Muleshoe Bend, "campsites are spread out giving each a spacious area, with expansive views of the river bank and the rather opulent houses on the far side." However, water access changes seasonally, impacting swimming and paddling opportunities.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping sites near Austin offer basic facilities. "At the gate entrance there are men's and women's rooms with running water. That's about 3 miles from the camp sites. So, be prepared to dig holes, bring your own portable toilets, or hold it," explains one Shaffer Bend camper. Potable water access varies significantly between parks.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Camp Creek Recreation Area, the process is straightforward: "First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go. Very easy system." Fees typically range from $10-25 for primitive tent camping.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play areas: Grelle-Lake Travis provides family-friendly camping with natural features children enjoy. One parent reports, "Hiking, kayaking, tenting, hammocks, mountain biking, horseback riding are all available here. Clean & flat sites, water views, quiet, convenient facilities from every site." The combination of activities keeps children engaged throughout the stay.
Plan for extreme heat: Summer camping near Austin requires careful planning for families. A Turkey Bend camper recommends morning activities: "Our first night was at a site very near the neighboring sites. It wasn't very private or peaceful. The next morning we asked to move. Around the corner, I think the sites were 25-29, they were better spaced very wooded." Schedule water activities during peak afternoon heat.
Pack extra water containers: Family camping requires approximately 1 gallon per person per day for drinking alone. Additional water needs for cooking and cleaning mean families should bring multiple storage containers. Many campgrounds have limited water access, as one Camp Creek visitor noted: "I do think 25 bucks for a place with no running water, no electric, and no actual bathroom is expensive."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for small RVs: Primitive sites accommodate smaller RVs, though amenities are limited. At Shaffer Bend, one camper shared their experience: "Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs! Dogs love running along water's edge and jumping in. Horses ok too from the looks of it. Sites 1-13 closer together and more in site if each other but still ok. Great hiking and walking. Small RV plus tent for us."
Solar power essentials: Austin tent camping areas with RV accommodation generally lack hookups. "No electrical hook-ups, so bring your solar panels," advises a Muleshoe Bend visitor. Portable solar systems between 100-200 watts provide sufficient power for basic needs during Austin's abundant sunny days.
